The Political History of the United States 1.20 The Great Migration
Jul 22, 2019
The podcast dives into the Great Migration of the 1630s, unveiling the political and economic turmoil that drove about 80,000 Puritans to flee England. It highlights the role of religious persecution under Charles I and the impact of European conflicts on Puritan fears. Listeners will learn about the significant events, like the Spanish Match, that deepened distrust and how the policies of William Laud intensified migration pressures. The distinction between Pilgrims and Puritans adds another layer to this fascinating historical narrative.
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Scale And Reach Of The Great Migration
- The Great Migration sent roughly 80,000 English people abroad in the 1630s, reshaping multiple colonies and regions.
- New England became prominent because many migrants were Puritans seeking religious refuge.
Economic Push Factors
- Economic collapse in southern England amplified migration pressure alongside religious causes.
- Textile decline and three years of bad harvests created high unemployment and rising food prices in the early 1630s.
Puritans As Political Force
- Puritan political influence grew substantially and shaped tensions with the crown.
- Parliament used control over taxation to check the king, making Puritan MPs an important lever against royal policy.